About Me

I was born and bred in Brighton and have lived here almost all my life.

For many years during my earlier adult life, I struggled with anxiety, depression and low self-worth. This led me down a destructive path towards problem drinking, alcoholism, drug use and gambling. After what were difficult and sometimes dark times, with the help of counselling and specialist addiction services, I finally overcame my anxiety, depression and lack of self-worth. I am also well over seven years clean and sober.

Does my past affect me now?

My past troubles are now in the past where they belong. The trauma, anxiety and depression that I suffered from have been explored, understood and dealt with. I have learned why I used to think and feel the way I did and – with help – I have been able to change that. I now have a way of living my life that means I can deal with the anxieties, fears, and ups and downs before they grow too big. I no longer feel the need to escape from reality or to seek a ‘fix’ to escape my feelings. Certainly I have absolutely no desire to return the madness, unhappiness and chaos that alcoholism and other addictions bring with them.

Becoming a Counsellor

My life experience, combined with a natural desire to help others, meant that after dealing with my own mental health and addiction problems I chose to work within mental health, homelessness and addiction services whilst I studied to become a BACP Registered Counsellor.

I can honestly say that I believe that my path in life has led me here for a reason. This is the work I was always meant to end up doing. I get genuine pleasure from helping others to overcome their problems and, in turn, my own feelings of wellbeing and self-belief are enhanced.

What about when I am not working?

Come rain or shine you may catch me running along Brighton seafront. I have completed the Brighton half-marathon in aid of a local charity that provides support for mental health and homelessness. I find running not only keeps me in shape, but settles my mind. For excitement I join my wife in following Brighton and Hove Albion (The Seagulls), but also enjoy relaxing on my own at the Sussex County Cricket Club during the summer months when I have time. Otherwise, we like films and theatre, reading a good book, or a walk in the countryside or by the sea.

As you can see, I still like to escape from time to time, but now it is in a more healthy and enjoyable way.

How do you make a start?

Whatever it is that is troubling you, I can help. I have the training and the experience that help me to genuinely understand. Take the next step and contact me to arrange a low cost initial session to find out if I am the right counsellor for you.